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Structure from Motion Photogrammetry in Forestry: a Review

Jakob Iglhaut, Carlos Cabo, Stefano Puliti, Livia Piermattei, James O’Connor, Jacqueline Rosette Orcid Logo

Current Forestry Reports, Volume: 5, Issue: 3, Pages: 155 - 168

Swansea University Authors: Jakob Iglhaut, Jacqueline Rosette Orcid Logo

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Abstract

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe adoption of Structure from Motion photogrammetry (SfM) is transforming the acquisition of three-dimensional (3D) remote sensing (RS) data in forestry. SfM photogrammetry enables surveys with little cost and technical expertise. We present the theoretical principles and p...

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Published in: Current Forestry Reports
ISSN: 2198-6436
Published: 2019
Online Access: Check full text

URI: https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa51276
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Abstract: AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe adoption of Structure from Motion photogrammetry (SfM) is transforming the acquisition of three-dimensional (3D) remote sensing (RS) data in forestry. SfM photogrammetry enables surveys with little cost and technical expertise. We present the theoretical principles and practical considerations of this technology and show opportunities that SfM photogrammetry offers for forest practitioners and researchers.Recent FindingsOur examples of key research indicate the successful application of SfM photogrammetry in forestry, in an operational context and in research, delivering results that are comparable to LiDAR surveys. Reviewed studies have identified possibilities for the extraction of biophysical forest parameters from airborne and terrestrial SfM point clouds and derived 2D data in area-based approaches (ABA) and individual tree approaches. Additionally, increases in the spatial and spectral resolution of sensors available for SfM photogrammetry enable forest health assessment and monitoring. The presented research reveals that coherent 3D data and spectral information, as provided by the SfM workflow, promote opportunities to derive both structural and physiological attributes at the individual tree crown (ITC) as well as stand levels.SummaryWe highlight the potential of using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and consumer-grade cameras for terrestrial SfM-based surveys in forestry. Offering several spatial products from a single sensor, the SfM workflow enables foresters to collect their own fit-for-purpose RS data. With the broad availability of non-expert SfM software, we provide important practical considerations for the collection of quality input image data to enable successful photogrammetric surveys.
Keywords: SfM Point cloud UAV Close-range photogrammetry (CRP) Forest inventory Forest health
Issue: 3
Start Page: 155
End Page: 168